Skin Resurfacing FAQ

What is laser skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing, is a procedure which uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser device to instantly vaporize the damaged top layer of skin in order to improve the appearance of facial lines, wrinkles, scars and uneven pigmentation. The entire face or just specific areas may be treated. The result is smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing?

If you are physically healthy, realistic in your expectations, and seeking an improvement in facial lines and other blemishes, you may be a good candidate for laser resurfacing. Pigmentation changes may be more likely to occur after treatment in patients with olive, brown or black skin.

Where does laser skin resurfacing take place?

Laser skin resurfacing is most often performed in an office setting, though the procedure may also take place in a hospital as an outpatient procedure, especially for more extensive resurfacing procedures.

What type of anesthesia will I receive for my laser skin resurfacing procedure?

Laser resurfacing is often performed with either topical anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation; however, general anesthesia is sometimes used instead, particularly in cases involving more extensive resurfacing.

How is laser skin resurfacing performed?

For the laser skin resurfacing procedure, a laser is passed over the skin, which causes the wrinkles/discolorations to become less noticeable. Creams or ointments may be applied after treatment, along with a bandage.

How long is the laser skin resurfacing procedure?

Laser skin resurfacing may take minutes when treating smaller areas to as much as an hour when treating the whole face. Multiple sessions are often required.

How much pain can I expect after my laser skin resurfacing procedure?

Patients may experience some mild discomfort after the laser skin resurfacing procedure. This is generally very well tolerated.

What should I expect of the recovery after my laser skin resurfacing procedure?

Some mild swelling can occur after the laser resurfacing treatment. Depending on the depth of the laser procedure, bandages may be applied. It’s common for crusts to appear on the treatment area but these will fade within about ten days. The skin can also appear red or pink for several weeks after treatment. Makeup/cover up will need to be avoided while skin is still open. You may choose to meet with our esthetician to discuss safe products. Also, it is recommended to avoid hair coloring for several weeks following your procedure. Please check with Dr. Sood for any specific concerns.

How much time should I plan to take off from work after my laser skin resurfacing procedure?

Depending on the depth of the laser procedure, normal activities, including work, can usually be resumed within days to about two weeks. Please check with Dr. Sood to determine what type of laser procedure you will be having.

How soon after my laser skin resurfacing procedure will I be able to exercise?

Any strenuous exercise should be postponed for about 4 to 6 weeks. It is very important that the skin be protected from the sun for about six to twelve months. A sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is recommended.  Our spa, Etc...Spa, carries avariety of medical quality sunscreen.

What risks are associated with laser skin resurfacing?

As with most cosmetic procedures, there are some risks that are associated with laser skin resurfacing and these may include abnormal changes in skin color, adverse anesthesia reactions, burns or other laser-related injuries, cold sores, infection, and scarring. Please let the office know if you have a history of cold sores/fever blisters before your procedure.

Dr. Sood's primary goal is to provide excellent clinical results along with a high level of patient care and service. Patient satisfaction is our highest concern. We are dedicated to providing every patient with a pleasant experience, beginning with the first visit and continuing on through surgical procedures and treatments and postoperative care. We encourage patients to evaluate the benefits as well as the risks of each procedure within the confines of realistic expectations.